Download User Guide for SCM Series

NADY SCM SERIES
USER GUIDE
SCM 900/910/920 Studio Condenser Microphones
Congratulations on purchasing a Nady SCM Series FET Condenser Microphone. These superior microphones are
perfect for recording studio vocals, acoustic instruments, orchestras and choral groups, ambient instrument audio,
and many live sound applications. Powerful and versatile, the SCM Series microphones meet the stringent requirements of even the most demanding digital recording and live broadcasting applications.
SCM 900
SCM 910
SCM 920
This manual covers the operation of the SCM 900/910/920 microphones and the available optional accessories.
To take full advantage of the superb features of your microphone, and to enjoy long and trouble-free use, please read this user's
guide carefully. Since these 3 models, the SCM 900, the SCM 910 and the SCM 920 share most
features, this guide will refer to all three collectively as the SCM Series, and their differences will be noted as applicable.
UNPACKING, INSPECTION, STORAGE AND TRANSPORT
Your SCM Series microphone was carefully packed at the factory, and the shipping carton (or carrying case) was designed to
protect the unit during shipping. Please retain this container for subsequent transport and in the highly unlikely event that you
ever need to return your microphone for servicing. The optional SMCC-2 aluminum carrying case is highly recommended for the
most convenient and safe transport or permanent storage. It has roomy compartments for your SCM Series microphone and all
available accessories, plus XLR cables.
STANDARD ITEMS SUPPLIED
SCM900/910/920 microphone
User guide
Warranty card
Leatherette Pouch
OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES
48V phantom power supply (SMPS-1)
Aluminum flight case (SMCC-2)
Shockmount (SSM-3)
Foam windscreen (FW-2)
FEATURES
The SCM Series microphones offer transformer-coupled balanced outputs and true condenser design (elements constantly biased
by the pre-amp) for exceptionally low self noise and increased dynamic range, enhanced low and high end response with
improved linearity across the frequency range and maximum SPL capacity.
The SCM Series microphones are available in a choice of 3 configurations: the SCM 900 (cardioid pattern only), The SCM910
(cardioid pattern, with selectable 10 dB attenuation pas and low-cut filter), and the SCM 920 (with selectable low-cut filter and
omni or cardioid polar patterns).
Each of the three SCM Series microphones features a large diaphragm capsule (1.0 inch), hand tooled from brass and featuring
an ultra-thin (3-micron) gold-evaporated on Mylar diaphragm for maximum sensitivity, transient response, long life, detail and
tone. The SCM Series microphones use carefully selected Field Effect Transistors (FET), specially chosen for their low distortion
and superior signal-to-noise ratio. (Note: For optimum performance, it is best to let your microphone warm up for 5 to 10
minutes)
Each SCM 900/910/920 is manufactured with the finest materials and features a machined housing with advanced internal
shock mount construction for the highest structural integrity and rugged reliability. It requires 48V phantom power to operate,
typically supplied by the microphone pre-amplifier or mixing console. The optional Nady SMPS-1 phantom power supply can
also be used.
WARNING
The capsule is the heart of your condenser microphone. If it becomes dirty or wet , the sound will be degraded. Never spray any
liquid on the microphone head. Always use a foam windscreen if you talk or sing close to the microphone grill screen.
USING THE OPTIONAL MICROPHONE SHOCK MOUNT
Your SCM Series microphone can be used with the optional Nady SSM-3 spider shock mount (or equivalent), which uses an
elastic suspension to isolate the microphone from vibration, thereby lowering noise transmitted to the microphone from the stand.
This is a useful tool in many situations, such as when the performer is tapping his or her feet, or when there is noise pickup from
the rumbling of traffic outside of the building. The disadvantage of using the shock mount is that the weight of the microphone
may make it drift in the elastic suspension, so mic placement may take a little longer.
To insert your SCM Series microphone into the SSM-3 shock mount, pinch close the levers on the sides of the mount to the open
position, then slide the microphone into place.
USING THE FOAM WINDSCREEN
The FW-2 optional foam windscreen can also be used with your SCM 900/910/920. This windscreen fits over the grill portion
of the microphone and is designed primarily to decrease bass rumble (from wind noise pickup during outdoor live or recording
use. It is also useful in keeping mouth spray out of the microphone head. The FW-2 or some other windscreen should be used
whenever someone is close miked to both protect the microphone and to also eliminate "popping" from percussive breath
sounds.
(Note: Be aware that the foam windscreen will slightly attenuate the high frequency response of the microphone.)
CONNECTING THE SCM 900/910/920
The SCM 900/910/920 can be used in live sound reinforcement and broadcasting and in studio or live recording. It must be
powered by 48V phantom power (such as supplied by the optional Nady SMPS-1 phantom power supply or a mixing console
with phantom powering), and amplified by a microphone pre-amp (such as built into a mixer, or a stand-alone unit). (Note:
Make sure to set the pre-amp to the proper gain level—too much gain may distort subsequent amplifiers and too little may result
in a noisy signal)
The SCM 900/910/920 can be connected to your mixer or phantom power supply using a standard balanced 3-pin XLR
microphone cable. Before connecting to a mixer directly, turn the channel to which you’re connecting to its lowest gain setting. If
you are using the Nady SMPS-1 Phantom Power Supply, connect in the following order:
1.
Connect the SCM 900/910/920 to the SMPS-1
2.
Connect the SMPS-1 Signal Output to your mixer
3.
Connect the SMPS-1 to the AC power supply (115—230VAC)
4.
Turn on the SMPS-1 Power ON/OFF switch
5.
Slowly turn up the channel gain in your mixer to the desired level
SERVICE
(U.S.) Should your Nady microphone require service, please contact the Nady Service Department via phone at (510) 6522411 or e-mail at [email protected]
(INTERNATIONAL) For service, please contact the Nady distributor in your country through the dealer from whom you purchased this product.
Do not attempt to service this unit yourself as it will void your warranty
SCM 900/910/920 SPECIFICATIONS
Type:
Polar pattern:
Controls:
Sensitivity:
Frequency range:
Low cut:
Impedance:
True condenser pressure-gradient microphone with1.0 inch diaphragm
(SCM 920: dual diaphragm) and FET preamplifier.
SCM 900/910: Cardioid
SCM 920: Selectable cardioid, & omnidirectional
SCM 910: Selectable low-cut filter and 10 dB pad
SCM 920: Selectable low-cut filter and pattern
SCM 900/910: 12mV/Pa=-38dB (0dB=1V/Pa)
SCM 910:-10att. (External)
SCM 920:10mV/Pa =-40dBV (0dBV=1V/Pa)
30 to 16,000Hz
100Hz, -6dB
< 200 Ohms
Recommended load impedance:
Max. SPL (1% THD @1000Hz):
Equivalent noise level to
IEC 268-4(A weighted):
S/N ratio re 1Pa:
Power requirement:
Current consumption:
Connector:
Mic cable:
Size:
Net weight:
≥1000 Ohms
125dB
20dB-A
76dB
+48VDC phantom power
<3mA
3-pin XLR (gold plated)
3-pin XLR standard cable
(not supplied)
Diameter: 2.0" (50.5mm),
Length: 7.5" (190mm)
17.8oz (500g)
Specifications subject to change for improvement purposes
12/22/00